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More than 200 people turned out for an event aimed at raising awareness of plans to run a pressurised carbon dioxide pipeline through Wirral, according to the Wirral Globe.
The Great Wirral Dip took place at Wallasey Beach Club on Saturday, and was described by organisers as 'a fun dip, not a swim'.
The weekend did deliver high winds, but around 50 people dipped, paddle boarded and kite-surfed in the water. Reportedly over 150 visited the beach club to discuss the impact of the Peak Cluster.
As we have explained, the pipeline, if approved, would transport carbon dioxide from cement factories in the Peak District through Cheshire and the Wirral to be compressed and sent under the sea. The main plan includes a huge compression facility to be built either near Meols or Moreton. The pipeline could also connect to Essar's Tranmere oil terminal to receive imported CO2.
Construction of the pipeline could begin as early as 2029 and last for three years into 2023. It is estimated to cost £5 billion. Despite not yet being approved, the government has already set aside £28.6 million to be dedicated to the project.
The reason people across the region staunchly disapprove of the pipeline is because of its potential detrimental effects on rural areas, livelihoods, and biodiversity. Many have pointed out how the technology isn't proven to work and poses high risks to the regions it'll pass through.
So, residents have formed their own opposition network.
The event was organised by campaign group Action Against CCS (AACCS). Group chair Laura Beveridge said: "It was a great show of community spirit and a very positive event. The committee of AACCS continues their work in the background, taking the opportunity to use the break in between consultations to prepare for the next phase."
She added: "Community events such as the dip are important to maintain community spirit and for continued awareness of the project and campaign."
Next week, a community walk along the pipeline route was scheduled, but there were issues with permits, so it was postponed until September.
Previous demonstrations have taken place outside Wallasey Town Hall and at the Floral Pavilion in New Brighton during public consultation events. Last month, New Brighton resident Paul Gould ran in the Makerfield by-election as a single-issue independent candidate to raise awareness of Peak Cluster.
The pipeline was also recently discussed in Parliament when Chester and South Eddisbury MP Aphra Brandreth raised her constituents' concerns about the environmental, economic and safety implications with an energy minister.
However, no formal decision has been made or scheduled for the pipeline yet.
